dry needling in cheltenham
the scientific way of targeting pain, loosening muscles, and reducing stress
Medical acupuncture (sometimes called Western acupuncture or dry needling) is a treatment derived from traditional Chinese medicine but adapted to modern healthcare. It involves inserting very fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body to stimulate nerves and muscles.
Unlike traditional acupuncture, which is based on the concept of energy flow (Qi), medical acupuncture focuses on scientific mechanisms such as:
- Stimulating sensory nerves under the skin and in muscles.
- Triggering the release of natural pain-relieving chemicals like endorphins.
- Relaxing tight muscle groups (trigger point acupuncture).
We integrate medical acupuncture into many of our treatment plans for a wide range of injuries, from sprains and strains to sports injuries, arthritis, back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, whether acute or chronic and inflammation.
Physiotherapy and medical acupuncture combined creates a synergistic effect where the sum benefit is greater than either alone. The use of dry needling is governed by the Acupuncture Association of Chartered Physiotherapists and we are registered and approved to perform
acupuncture in Cheltenham by Cheltenham Borough Council so you can be assured that at all times you will receive professional care.
“Stuart diagnosed my condition, explained it so ! could understand what was going on with massage, acupuncture, and exercises and helped me recover within a few months. I would absolutely recommend Stuart to anyone with a back problem.”
Becky, Google review
needle therapy benefits
- Dry needling is a safe and effective treatment option, it doesn’t involve surgery or medication, making it ideal for people who prefer a natural pain relief approach. It’s a gentle way to support recovery.
- The treatment works by stimulating the release of endorphins, your body’s natural painkillers, helping to ease discomfort and encourage healing in the injured area.
- Dry needling can improve blood flow to the injured area. It helps by delivering essential nutrients and oxygen to your muscles, promotes healing, reducing inflammation and speeding up recovery.
- Dry needling is often combined with other physiotherapy techniques, such as exercise therapy, manual therapy, or heat and ice treatments for even greater results.
- Dry needling physiotherapy is a great way to release tight muscles and joints, this helps to improve muscle function, and increases flexibility, and range of motion.
- Dry needling can also reduce the build‑up of scar tissue, a common side effect of injury that often causes stiffness and discomfort—making movement easier and less painful.
- Beyond the physical benefits, dry needling helps calm the nervous system, lowering stress levels that can slow down recovery, easing muscle tension, and promoting relaxation.
- Dry needling even supports relaxation and better sleep quality, both of which are essential for your body to heal and recharge. It complements this by encouraging the body’s natural repair processes.
Book now
At Straight Back Physio we believe in giving our patients the opportunity to engage and explain their injury history, lifestyle etc. to our physiotherapists therefore each new patient is given 45minutes on their first appointment with follow ups being 30 minutes in length.
Recover faster, our chartered physios can usually get you back to redoing the activities you can't do now within 4 to 8 sessions.
We understand that some people may want to find out a bit more about the cost before they book an appointment at our physiotherapy clinic. Our unique save as you recover packages can save you up to 20% on the cost of a single session.
Insured
For insured clients we can either work directly with your insurance provider or offer receipts for cash-based plans, allowing you to reclaim your expenses.
Not Covered by Insurance
If you want see the best physiotherapist in your area, feel free to book an appointment at our Cheltenham physiotherapy clinic without needing a referral from your GP.
Why Choose Us
No other local physiotherapy clinic can match our level of expertise and rehabilitation services, thanks to our extensive experience and in-house gym facilities. You'll receive the full benefits of physiotherapy through a tailored combination of interventions designed to guide you on your path to recovery.